Immigration Legal Assistant

International Rescue Committee, Inc.; Elizabeth (NJ); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The International Rescue Committee is seeking a legal support role focused on immigration services. This position entails assisting clients with applications and benefits, responding to inquiries, maintaining case files, and conducting community outreach. Ideal candidates will possess strong communication skills in English and Haitian Creole, with a commitment to immigrant rights. Join IRC in making a meaningful impact by empowering immigrant communities during crucial times.

Benefits

403b retirement plans

Mental health support services

Sick leave

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience required.
• Experience in multicultural environments desired.
• Proficiency in English and Haitian Creole required; Spanish is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist clients with immigration benefits and document gathering.
• Maintain accurate case files and follow up with clients.
• Communicate and represent IRC with clients and community members.

Skills

Communication in English

Communication in Haitian Creole

Organization

Attention to detail

Multicultural effectiveness

Education

Bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Immigration software

Job description

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world's largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), operating in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, helping people survive, reclaim control of their future, and strengthen their communities. A force for humanity, IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity, and hope to millions. If you're a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, join us in positively impacting lives worldwide for a better future.

The position supports legal practitioners (attorneys and/or Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited representatives) in representing clients before USCIS and conducting community-based workshops and legal orientations, including support for pro-se asylum applications among Haitian entrants. Legal services focus on asylum, family reunification, employment authorization, and other eligible immigration benefits.

Major Responsibilities:

1. Under supervision of a licensed or accredited legal practitioner, provide clients with information about immigration benefits available through USCIS, assist in gathering documents, and help complete applications.
2. Respond to inquiries from clients regarding case status and submit inquiries to USCIS and/or DOS.
3. Process correspondence from USCIS and DOS, notify and assist clients in preparing responses, and follow up with relevant parties.
4. Maintain accurate case files and notes, enter data timely, meet reporting requirements, and assist in preparing reports.
5. Represent the IRC with clients, community members, and partners through communication, scheduling, supporting events, and outreach.
6. Maintain client confidentiality and observe ethical practices as outlined in IRC’s policies.
7. Depending on needs and review, pursue Department of Justice accreditation through training.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience
• Experience working effectively in multicultural environments and with Limited English Proficient populations
• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and online software
• Excellent communication skills in English and Haitian Creole; Spanish proficiency is a plus
• Dedication to immigrant rights, social justice, or human rights

Preferred Experience & Skills:

• Experience with immigration legal or social services
• Familiarity with immigration software and data management
• Community outreach and immigrant rights promotion experience

Working Environment:

• Standard office setting with occasional outreach and legal assistance events
• May require weekend/evening work

Compensation: Posted pay ranges apply to US-based candidates, based on factors like labor market, job type, and experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer: IRC considers all applicants merit-based without discrimination.

US Benefits: Include 403b retirement plans, sick leave, and mental health support services.

Standard of Professional Conduct: IRC employees adhere to the IRC Way – our Code of Conduct emphasizing Integrity, Service, Accountability, and Equality.